THE 'DEVOURER. 45 



Our first example of this family is the Beetle wliich is known 

 to entomologists by the name of Pt&iostichus viadidus, a 

 figure of which is given on Woodcut No. IV. Fig. 2. The strong 

 and peculiarly-formed mandible of this genus is shown at Fig. a, 

 and its maxillary palpus at Fig. b. The colour of the insect is 

 shining black, with a slight brassy gloss. The smooth head 

 has two impressions in front ; the thorax is convex and narrow 

 behind, with a bold central furrow and a deep wrinkled pit at 

 each angle. A lens is required to make out these details. 

 The elytra are covered with regular striae, a circumstance w'hich 

 has gained for these insects the generic title of PterosticJiUS, or 

 'streaked-wing.' There are a few small punctures on each elytron, 

 and a row of bold punctures runs along each margin. The 

 wings are not developed. 



This is a very common insect, and can be taken in any 

 number, as it runs boldly about. Anglers often use it success- 

 fully as bait. Although devoid of wings, it is very quick on its 

 legs, darting about with such velocity that the generic name of 

 Sferopiis, or ' lightning,' was once applied to it and another 

 allied Beetle. 



Twenty-two British species of this genus are now acknow- 

 ledged, but in it are merged several genera of the older 

 entomologists. 



We now come to one of the largest and most interesting 

 insect of this family, though assuredly it is not a beautiful one. 

 This is Broscus cephalotes, a Beetle which is shown on Plate I. 

 Fig. 4. 



This insect has been called the giant of its family, a name 

 which it well deserves, as it rivals the Carabi themselves in 

 size, sometimes reaching nearly an inch in length. Being a 

 predacious Beetle, it is gifted with very powerful jaws, which 

 are attached to a head of more than ordinary size. The 

 specific name cephalotes signifies large-headed, and is appro- 

 priately given to this Beetle. The generic name Broscus 

 signifies a devourer, and is equally appropriate. 



■This insect can at once be known by the very large head, 

 and the shape of the thorax, which is much narrowed towards 

 its base. A deep furrow runs along its centre, and its base has 

 a deep pit on either side. The elytra are rounded at the 



